Why a Pet Friendly Cab Matters
Not every driver is keen on animals in the car. Some have allergies, some worry about hair on the seats, and some simply prefer not to. Turning up at the kerb with a Labrador and being turned away is no fun for anyone.
That is why we ask about pets at the booking stage. When you mention your pet, we match you with a driver who is fine with it. No awkward surprises at the door, and no last minute scramble to find another way to the vet.
It sounds like a small thing. For pet owners in Cheam without a car, it can make a big difference to everyday life.
Trips We Do with Pets Most Often
Pet owners call us for all sorts of reasons. These are the most common.
- Vet appointments around Cheam, Sutton and Worcester Park, including check-ups, jabs and operations.
- Emergency vet trips at night or at weekends, when you cannot wait for a bus.
- Drop-offs and collections at kennels and catteries before and after holidays.
- Grooming appointments, where a muddy dog goes in and a fluffy one comes out.
- Days out at bigger parks, like Wimbledon Common or Richmond Park, for a change from the usual walk.
- Moving house with pets, when the removal van is full and the cat needs a calm ride.
Dogs, Cats and Small Animals
Most of our pet bookings involve dogs, but we carry other animals too.
Dogs should be on a lead and kept on the floor or on a blanket. Larger dogs may be more comfortable in an MPV, where there is more space. Let us know the size and breed so we can send the right car.
Cats should travel in a secure carrier. It is safer for them and much less stressful. A blanket over the carrier often helps a nervous cat stay calm.
Rabbits, guinea pigs and other small pets should also be in a proper carrier. Just let us know what you are bringing.
Assistance Dogs
Assistance dogs are different. By law, licensed private hire drivers must carry assistance dogs at no extra charge, unless they hold a medical exemption certificate. You do not need to book a pet friendly car for an assistance dog, but it always helps to mention it so we can plan the right vehicle.
Tips for a Smooth Pet Trip
A little preparation makes the ride easier for everyone, including your pet.
- Bring a blanket or towel to put down, especially after a muddy walk on Nonsuch Park or Cheam Park.
- Keep your dog on a short lead and your cat in a secure carrier.
- Take water on longer journeys, and a few treats for good behaviour.
- Let us know if your pet gets travel sick, so the driver can drive gently and stop if needed.
- If your pet is anxious, ask the driver to keep the radio low.
If there is any mess, please tell the driver. Ask us when you book whether any cleaning charge could apply, so there are no surprises.
Vet Visits Around Cheam and Sutton
There are many vet practices around the area, from small local surgeries in Cheam Village and North Cheam to larger practices in Sutton and Worcester Park. Wherever your vet is, we can get you there.
For planned appointments, book ahead and give us the address. For emergencies, call us on 020 3642 6174. We are open 24 hours, so a late night trip to an emergency vet is no problem. Tell us it is urgent and we will do our best to get a car to you fast.
Need a return trip? We can wait or come back at a set time. Mention it when you book.
Moving House with Pets
Moving day is stressful for people, and even more so for pets. The removal van is full, doors are open all day and nobody has time to keep an eye on the cat.
Many owners book us to take their pets to the new home ahead of the move, or to a friend's house for the day. The animal travels calmly in a quiet car and arrives settled. Tell us the addresses and we will give you a fixed fare.
Older, Nervous and Unwell Pets
Some pets hate travelling. Older dogs may struggle to jump into a car, and nervous cats can cry the whole way. Pets recovering from an operation need a gentle ride home.
Tell us about these needs when you book. We will send a driver who is patient and will drive smoothly. For older dogs, tell us if they struggle to climb in, so the driver can help them settle. Bring a familiar blanket or toy for comfort.
Pets and Children on the Same Trip
Families often travel with both. A dog, two children and a pile of bags for a trip to the grandparents. Let us know the full picture when you book. We can fit child seats on request and send a car big enough for everyone, including the four legged passenger.
Choosing the Right Car for Your Pet
Luggage figures are a typical guide. Tell us your bag count when you book and we will match the car.
Small dogs and cats in carriers travel well in a saloon. Bigger dogs are usually happier in an MPV, where they have room to lie down. If you are travelling with your whole family and a dog, a 6 seater MPV gives everyone space.
Longer Trips with Your Pet
Heading away for a holiday with your dog? Many families take their pets on train trips to the coast. We can drive you and your dog to a London terminus such as Paddington Station for trains to the West Country. Check your train operator's pet rules first, as they vary.
We also cover longer road trips on a pre-booked basis. Tell us the destination and we will give you a fixed fare.
Staying in a Hotel with Your Pet
Many hotels now welcome dogs. If you are travelling to or from a pet friendly hotel, our hotel transfer taxi service works with pets too. Just mention your pet in the booking.
Pet Friendly Cabs Across the Area
We cover pet owners right across the borough and beyond, including Mitcham, Wimbledon and Sutton. For family trips with children and pets, see our school run taxi page for how we handle regular bookings.
Book a Pet Friendly Taxi
Use the quote form at the top of this page, or call us on 020 3642 6174. Tell us what kind of pet you have, its size, and whether it travels in a carrier. We will do the rest.
Pet Friendly Taxi FAQs
Can I take my dog in a taxi in Cheam?
Yes. Tell us when you book and we will send a driver who is happy to carry dogs.
Do cats need to be in a carrier?
Yes, for their safety and comfort, cats should always travel in a secure carrier.
Is there an extra charge for pets?
Ask us when you book. We will explain how pets are priced and whether any cleaning charge could apply.
Do you carry assistance dogs?
Yes. Licensed drivers must carry assistance dogs at no extra charge unless they hold a medical exemption.
Can you take my pet to an emergency vet at night?
Yes. We run 24 hours. Call us, tell us it is urgent and we will get a car to you as quickly as we can.
What car is best for a large dog?
An MPV gives a big dog more room to lie down comfortably.
Can I take my pet to a train station?
Yes. We can drop you and your pet at any London station. Check the train operator's pet rules before you travel.